The Physics and Biophysics of Sound Production, Transmission, and Reception

Schottenbauer Publishing

Wednesday, July 29, 2015

Decibels & Hearing

Decibels are the measurement unit for the level of sound. Noise level is measured on a logarithmic scale, with the threshold of hearing at 0 decibels. On this scale, a typical conversation is approximately at 60 decibels, a vacuum cleaner at 70 decibels, and a jackhammer at 100 decibels.

According to OSHA, high sound level exposure is linked to hearing loss, particularly if the exposure to loud noises is prolonged over time. OSHA's permissible exposure limit is approximately 90 decibels.

Science Education Blogs

About Me

An award-winning musician and science student as a youth and young adult, M. Schottenbauer, Ph.D. studied music, physics, mathematics, and liberal arts at the university before earning a doctorate in psychology. Dr. Schottenbauer held a position as a Research Assistant Professor, and currently works full-time as an independent researcher, author, composer, educational software developer, and publisher.